Quick Kicks: Could Johnson be Hobbs 2.0?

Erik Scalavino

Patriots.com Writer

Nate Solder

INDIANAPOLIS — Cornerback Leonard Johnson (5-9, 196) of Iowa State is one of the higher-rated players at his position in this year's draft class.

He just got done speaking with the media here at the Combine and might remind some New England fans of another former Cyclones player, Ellis Hobbs. It just so happens that Johnson is familiar with him, too.

"I know him pretty well. I've talked to him numerous times during my early years at Iowa State," Johnson explained. "Haven't talked to him in a while, but he's a guy who shared a lot of advice, tips, and pointers, things I can take from his game and mix them in with mine."

In particular, being patient at the line of scrimmage.

"We're a team that plays a lot of man-to-man coverage, and patience at the line is very important. A lot of corners – I do it sometimes, too – when the receiver gives you a lot of moves off the line [to evade you], you have to wait till he gets done moving to actually release into his route. That's what he told me, just be patient. They're not going anywhere … let them come to you."

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